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34
DENTAL SERVICE (MATERNITY AND CHILD WELFARE)
W.G. Everett, L.D.S.,R.C.S.,(Eng.) Chief Dental Officer
Dental treatment for expectant and nursing mothers and pre-school
children is provided by the staff of the School Dental Service. Ideally;
20% of their time would be devoted to this function, but in the present
situation where there is a large unsatisfied demand for treatment from
school children, it is not possible to achieve this balance. The importance
of regular dental treatment for pre-school children cannot be overstressed.
So often the first visit a child makes is when he or she starts
school. By that time, research has shown, the child is likely to have
about five decayed teeth, and the first experience of dentistry is likely
to be an everlasting impression of the discomfort of prolonged and extensive
treatment. Early attention minimises the effectd of dental caries. Also
a child needs an opportunity to get to know the dentist and the nurse and
the unfamiliar surroundings of tne surgery.
The three year old birthday scheme has been continued at the
Sanderstead Centre. This has proved popular with parents and is successful
in that about 20% of those contacted accept the offer of a dental inspection
at the clinic. It is to be hoped that increased staff will permit the extension
of this scheme throughout the Borough.
Dental Health Education talks have been given in infant welfare
centres to mothers attending toddlers' clubs. The numbers of such meetings
have decreased during the year. It is to be hoped that this service will be
re-developed so that these opportunities for addressing groups of parents
will provide an expanding outlet for dental health propaganda.
For details see Appendix page 118.
MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES
Administration
The Medical Officer of Health is in administrative control, and the
Deputy and two Assistant Medical Officers of Health are approved for the
purpose of the Mental Health Act. Dr. J.D.W. Fisher, Consultant Psychiatrist
at Warlingham Park Hospital is Psychiatric Adviser to the Local
Health Authority and the Medical Director of their community mental health
services. Dr. B.W. Richards, Consultant Psychiatrist at St. Lawrence's
Hospital continues as adviser in mental subnormality.
My thanks are again due to medical colleagues both in hospitals and
general practice for their help and co-operation without which the continuing
successful operation and development of the mental health services would
not be possible.